Rugby World Cup 2011: Australia vs. Ireland, Game Recap

Luckily for The Australian Wallabies, the weekend newspapers print on Saturday morning and cover the whole weekend, so the uninspired effort by the world's second-ranked team won't be reported to the Aussie public until Monday.

But, in the meantime, there is much for coach Robbie Deans and company to think about.

The Irish scrum was dominant over Australia in their 15-6 win, and Irish forwards kept continued pressure on the Australian defense.

As for defense, Australia seemed to struggle to match the intensity of the Irish, and played most of the game on their heels. As a result, the Wallabies couldn't score a single try and were forced into too many penalties.

Ireland's 15 points came off of four penalty goals and one drop goal. Australia scored six points off of two penalty goals.

Though both of these squads are expected to advance into the quarterfinals, things suddenly look much different for both times.

Ireland will end up winning Pool C and face the runner-up of Pool D (Wales in all likelihood).

Meanwhile, Australia will have to face the winner of Pool D, probably defending champion South Africa. Furthermore, Australia will now be sitting on the same side of the bracket as the New Zealand All Blacks, the world's No. 1 team, and a favorite to advance to the finals.

But the tournament continues.

Australia will face the United States on Friday, September 23. The United States is fresh off a win against Russia, but may end up being the punching bag at the hands of Australian revenge.

Ireland will next face the Russians, who will most likely finish the World Cup without a win.